Hanging out with your kids? Sure, you do it all the time -- as long as there isn't a television program on, or if you can peel them away from instant messaging, e-mailing and gaming.
With so many bright, flashy distractions right there in the living room, it's no wonder family time has become a foreign term -- a term family activists across North America are trying to take back, by urging families to turn off the television at least one night a week.
Sounds great, but what to do with all that free time? We came up with some fun ideas to make it easier -- at least a little -- for you to implement No TV Night in your household.
1. Game night
Clear the dining room table and get out a fun, creative board game that's appropriate for all ages. An interactive game, such as Cranium or Balderdash, can help the whole family think outside the box.
2. Back in time
Whether your kids believe it or not, you did have a life before they came along. Going through old photo albums from your own childhood and young adulthood can give your offspring a clearer picture of mom or dad as a person. To keep interest from waning, be sure to include plenty of stories and photos of the kids, too.
3. Take it outside
Take in some fresh air (bundle up accordingly) and do whatever makes sense seasonally. Build a snowman, have an alfresco picnic in the backyard, rake a big pile of leaves to jump in or go on earthworm rescues mission after a rainy day.
4. Visit a farmer's market
Whether you live in a city centre or in a rural area, take a trip to pick up some local produce, cheese or meats. Learn about the benefits of slow food, where your food came from and plan a meal around what you choose.
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